tiped out faded blue dreads

3 min read 24-01-2025

Meta Description: Love your dreads but that blue dye is fading? This guide offers expert tips and tricks for reviving faded blue dreadlocks, from color refreshing shampoos to professional dyeing. Learn how to keep your blue dreads vibrant and gorgeous. Get ready to rediscover your stunning blue locks!

Why Blue Dreadlocks Fade

The vibrant blue of your dreadlocks may fade over time due to several factors:

Sun Exposure: UV rays from the sun are a major culprit in color fading. The sun's harsh rays can break down the hair dye molecules, leading to a washed-out appearance.
Washing Frequency: Frequent washing, especially with harsh shampoos, can strip away color. The more you wash, the faster the dye will fade.
Water Quality: Hard water can contain minerals that react with hair dye, causing it to fade prematurely.
Initial Dye Quality: The quality of the initial dye job plays a significant role. A low-quality dye will generally fade faster than a professional, high-quality dye.

Reviving Your Faded Blue Dreads

Fortunately, there are several ways to restore the vibrancy of your faded blue dreads:

1. Color Refreshing Shampoos and Conditioners

These specialized products are designed to deposit color back into your hair, gradually refreshing your faded blue. Many brands offer shades specifically for blue hair. Look for shampoos and conditioners specifically designed for color-treated hair. These are gentler than regular shampoos and will help prevent further fading.

2. Temporary Hair Color Sprays or Washes

For a quick fix, temporary hair color sprays or washes are a convenient option. These products add a temporary layer of color to your dreads, covering up the faded areas without making a permanent commitment. They wash out gradually, allowing you to experiment with different shades and intensities. They are perfect for touching up faded spots in between longer-lasting dye treatments.

3. Semi-Permanent or Demi-Permanent Hair Dye

These dyes offer a longer-lasting solution than temporary options but are less permanent than permanent dyes. Semi-permanent dyes gradually wash out over several weeks, while demi-permanent dyes last a bit longer. These are excellent choices for refreshing the color of your dreadlocks without resorting to a full re-dye. Opt for a shade that matches your original blue.

4. Permanent Hair Dye (Professional Application Recommended)

For the most significant color restoration, a permanent hair dye is the way to go. This is a more intensive process that involves fully bleaching and re-dyeing your dreads to get the most vibrant blue. This method should be performed by a professional. Improper techniques could lead to significant damage to your hair and dreadlocks.

5. Protective Measures: Preventing Future Fading

To prevent your newly refreshed blue from fading again, consider these preventative measures:

Sun Protection: Wear a hat or use UV-protective hair products when spending time in the sun.
Less Frequent Washing: Wash your dreads less frequently, only when necessary.
Color-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner: Always use color-safe products specifically formulated for color-treated hair. Avoid harsh sulfates and other chemicals that can strip away color.
Water Filter: Consider installing a shower filter to remove minerals from your water. This can reduce color fading by minimizing the exposure to hard water.

Choosing the Right Approach

The best approach for refreshing your faded blue dreads depends on the level of fading and your desired outcome:

Mild fading: A color-refreshing shampoo or temporary hair color might be sufficient.
Moderate fading: Semi-permanent or demi-permanent hair dye may be a better option.
Significant fading: A permanent dye job by a professional is recommended for the most vibrant results.

Maintaining Vibrant Blue Dreads

Once you've revived the blue in your dreadlocks, maintaining their vibrancy is key. Continue using color-safe products, minimize sun exposure, and wash less frequently to prolong the life of your gorgeous blue color. Regularly conditioning your dreads will also help them stay healthy and vibrant.

Remember to always perform a strand test before applying any dye to your entire head of dreadlocks. This helps to check for allergic reactions and ensure the dye works well with your hair type. If you are unsure about any of these processes, it is always best to consult a professional hairstylist experienced in coloring dreadlocks.